The Airedale Terrier is known as the "King of Terriers."

They excels in agility, eyesight, hearing and has untiring courage. They have a sweet disposition, but may be aloof with strangers. Airedale Terriers have excelled in being a hunter for foxes, badgers, weasels, otters, water rats and ducks. The Airedale Terrier makes a good jogging partner because of their athletic physique. Owners should be strong and confident who can combines firm discipline with patience and precision. Very good with children they make a loyal family pet. Not an ideal apartment dogs - they should have a fenced yard. They are not difficult to train, but they do not respond to harsh overbearing training methods. The Airedale Terrier is intelligent enough to perceive quickly what is required of it, but if you ask it to do the same thing over and over again it may refuse.

 

Some of the Airedale Terrier characteristics:

Height: 23 inches

Weight: 45 - 55 lbs

Coat: Hard, dense and wiry with a soft undercoat

Watch-dog: High

Guard-dog: High

Care: Brush with a stiff bristle brush to remove dead hair three times a week. Minimal trimming. Bathe only when necessary. Should be hand-stripped twice a year. If you keep the coat stripped it will shed little to no hair

Learning Rate: High intelligence.

Activity: High

Life Span: 11 -15

Litter Size: 4 - 12

Health Issues: A very hardy breed, although some may suffer from eye problems, hip dysplasia and skin infections

Country of Origin: Great Britain

History: The Airedale Terrier was originally known as the Waterside Terrier and sometimes the Bingley Terrier. Named after the Valley of Aire in Yorkshire, England they were derived from crossing the old English black and tan terrier with the Otterhound. Used in the 19th century for big game hunting, vermin killing and police and military work. Their exploits as determined messengers in World War I, made the Airedale a hero.

 

To view the AKC breed standard visit:

http://www.akc.org/breeds/recbreeds/airedale.cfm